DIY Vapour Rub

Weekly DIY

DIY Vapour Rub

Recreate the comforting scent of childhood with this simple DIY vapour rub, inspired by a trusted South African favourite many of us grew up with. Made with just a few natural ingredients, this balm helps create a refreshing, easy-breathing atmosphere during colder months.

15–20 mins + setting time
Beginner Friendly
Concerns
Seasonal wellness • Chest comfort
Benefits
Clearing aroma • Non-greasy texture
Format
Solid balm / vapour rub
Shelf life
Approx. 6 months in a cool, dry place

What You'll Need

Just 4 natural ingredients:

Grapeseed Oil 
🥄5 tbsp 
Lightweight, nourishing, and helps the balm glide smoothly onto the skin without a greasy finish.

Beeswax Pellets
🥄2 tbsp 
Thickens the balm while helping protect and soften the skin.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil
💧20 drops 
Loved for its fresh, clearing aroma that helps encourage an easy-breathing atmosphere.

Peppermint Essential Oil
💧10 drops 
Adds a cooling, refreshing sensation with that classic comforting scent.

How to Make

  1. Add grapeseed oil and beeswax pellets to a heatproof container or double boiler.
  2. Gently heat until the wax has completely melted.
  3. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils.
  5. Stir well to combine.
  6. Pour into a clean balm jar or tin.
  7. Allow to cool and set completely before use.

How to Use

Guidance

Massage a small amount onto the chest, neck, upper back, or soles of the feet as desired.

You can also apply a little before bedtime as part of a comforting nighttime routine.

Avoid applying near the eyes, inside the nose, or onto broken or irritated skin.

Make It Yours

You can customise the texture and formulation to suit your preferences:

  • Beeswax = firm, classic vapour rub texture
  • Soy Wax = softer, creamier balm (use approx. 2½ tbsp)
  • Rice Bran Wax = firmer, smoother vegan alternative (use approx. 1½ tbsp)

You can also customise your vapour rub with essential oils traditionally associated with winter wellness, such as:

  • Ravintsara Essential Oil
  • Wild Oregano Essential Oil
  • African Wormwood Essential Oil

Just remember to keep overall dilution levels skin-safe.

Pro Tips & Storage

  • For a firmer balm, add slightly more wax. For a softer, ointment-like texture, increase the oil slightly.

  • If your balm sets too firm, gently remelt and add a little more oil. If it’s too soft, remelt and add a small amount of extra wax.

  • Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care. Perform a patch test before first use and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

  • If using this blend for young children, we recommend reading our blog on child-friendly essential oils for guidance on age-appropriate essential oil use and dilution.

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to help preserve freshness and aroma.
Essentially Natural Peppermint Pure Essential Oil

Essentially Natural Peppermint Pure Essential Oil

R 69.00
Essentially Natural Eucalyptus Smithii Pure Essential Oil

Essentially Natural Eucalyptus Smithii Pure Essential Oil

R 39.00
Essentially Natural Beeswax Pellets

Essentially Natural Beeswax Pellets

R 99.00

Cayla Mandean

With a passion for skincare, wellness, and storytelling, Cayla is here to cut through the clutter and empower you with clear, research-backed, actionable knowledge to elevate your beauty routine and well-being. If she’s not outside in nature, at the gym, reading or spending time with her loved ones, you will find her creating clear, impactful content that inspires and informs. Her goal? To make sure you feel confident in your choices and enjoy the journey to an empowered, happier you!